THE WORK OF THE MAN GOD MAKES A MINISTER

 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life, 3:6.

1. He is a messenger of the New Testament.The Old Testament or Covenant was one of works.And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live, Luke 10:28. But it gave no strength to perform its commands nor made any allowances for failure. The transgression of the law brought condemnation and death. For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them, Galatians 3:10. Consequently, that which was ordained to life for perfect Adam became a ministry of death to his fallen descendants. 

The New Testament, on the other hand, was fitted for the needs of sinners, Heb 8:8-12. The law issued “commands without aid and menaces without hope but the gospel offers a free pardon for all sin, and communicates strength for future obedience.” 

2. He is a bringer of life. Condemnation and death were the only fruits of the Old Covenant  but the New brings life. It ministers to all the needs of the sinner.

His guilt — it provides a faultless righteousness even Christ’s. 

His corruption — it provides sanctification through the operation of the Holy Spirit by the Word of God. 

His weakness — it provides power. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me, Philippians 4:13.

His going to hell — Heaven with its joys and glories are his freely.

3. For this to be experienced, the gospel must be received spiritually. That is, it must reach the heart and soul and not just the ears and head. It must be embraced by faith. It must be believed upon and thus brought into the soul. Then life will flood the soul of the one who thus believes. John 6:40.